Video Calling, Zoom & Staying in Touch Digitally | Primary Health Awareness Trust


Video Calling, Zoom & Staying in Touch Digitally

By The Primary Health Awareness Trust

Technology can’t replace hugs — but it can bring a friendly face to your screen when you need it most. Whether it’s a grandchild’s smile, a Zoom fitness session, or a friendly chat with a neighbour, learning how to video call is one of the most empowering digital skills for older adults today.

Why Video Calling Matters

Staying socially connected is essential for mental wellbeing, memory health, and preventing loneliness. Research from Age UK and the NHS shows that strong social ties improve mood, energy, and even reduce the risk of depression.

Video calling is a simple, free way to keep those bonds strong — wherever you are.

Which App Should I Use?

  • Zoom: Great for group calls, classes, and meetings (used by our charity!)
  • WhatsApp: Quick one-to-one or group video calls on smartphones
  • FaceTime: Built into iPhones and iPads for easy video calls
  • Facebook Messenger: Video chats with friends already on Facebook

Choose the app most used by your family or group. Once you’re familiar with one, others will feel easy.

Step-by-Step: Joining a Video Call

📞 WhatsApp

  1. Open the WhatsApp app
  2. Tap the person you want to call
  3. Tap the video camera icon in the top right

📲 FaceTime (iPhone/iPad)

  1. Open the FaceTime app or your Contacts
  2. Choose someone who uses Apple
  3. Tap the video button

💻 Zoom (on phone, tablet or laptop)

  1. Install the Zoom app (free)
  2. Tap the Zoom link someone sent you, or open the app and tap “Join”
  3. Enter the meeting ID and your name
  4. Tap “Join with video”

Top tip: Use headphones if you struggle with sound — it helps reduce echo and boosts clarity.

Camera Confidence: You Don’t Have to Be Perfect

It’s normal to feel self-conscious at first. But no one expects perfect lighting, makeup, or a tidy room. Just being there is what matters.

Small tips to help you feel confident:

  • Prop your phone up so you’re not holding it
  • Sit near a window or lamp for soft lighting
  • Smile! People are happy to see you — not judge you

Practice in a Safe Space

If you’re new to video calls, join our Zoom Digital Support Group. You can practise turning your camera on/off, asking questions, or just observing. No pressure — only support.

Video Calls and Brain Health

Conversations help keep your mind sharp. Unlike watching TV, video calling requires memory, attention, and emotional engagement — all good for building cognitive resilience.

Regular chats, even short ones, can lower stress and improve quality of life. Combine that with a bit of laughter, and you’ve got digital medicine with no side effects.

🎥 Surprise Prompt: Try scheduling a 5-minute video call with a friend or family member this week. Reflect afterwards — how did it feel to see their face?

Next Step: Modern Messaging Made Simple

Coming up in Blog 5: we’ll look at text messages, emails, sending photos, and staying in touch — safely and joyfully.

➡ Read Blog 5: Email, Text, and Messaging – The Modern Way to Communicate


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